Trainer Peter Hallett, from Newcastle-based Tuff'n'up Boxing, says his gym is proud to be hosting the Terrace's first ever professional boxing bout to take place at the Raymond Terrace Bowling Club.

The main event will feature local professional heavyweight Jack Maris, a 32-year-old who only took up the sport three years ago and has won his only professional fight to date.

Maris, who had a strong record as an amateur boxer winning 23 of his 25 bouts, will take on USA boxer Clarence Tillman over four by three-minute rounds.

A strapping heavyweight - he weighs in at 110kg and stands a soaring 206cm tall (6ft 9in in the old scale) - Maris will use his reach advantage against his opponent. "I like to use my jab because of my height and reach advantage over opponents."

Hallett said he has been most impressed with his protege since turning pro. "He has really come along in recent months, concentrating on his boxing career, paving the pavements with roadworks and honing his skills on the boxing bag."

Maris' only professional bout last year resulted in a win against a more experienced boxer, but unfortunately since then he has endured a few setbacks with fights that have fallen through.

Another Terrace boxer on the undercard is 27-year-old light heavyweight Blake Payne, who will be in the ring for only the second time as an amateur, taking on Syndeysider Peter Bedrossan in a three-round bout. The night starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are $45. For information contact Hallett on 0414 292 185.